When it comes to renting a car, there are a lot of things to think about. For instance, do you want to rent a cheap or luxury car, do you need a one-way rental, a rental car for traveling in Europe or even a large passenger van for up to 15 people? Renting a car can be cheap if you know some tips and tricks for finding coupons for rental cars.

The best advice for finding a discount on a rental car is to use the Internet. Many companies have web-only specials, and you won't be able to get them without booking online. Searching on the Internet also allows you to search by price, car type, best deal and the city in which you need to use the rental.

If you need the rental for less than a week, you should probably go with one of the major companies, such as Alamo, Hertz or Avis. These companies ca offer the best deals for short rentals. Each company has some great programs, and they reward people who have repeat business. For instance, you can get free days, of a discount on a five day rental, free child seat rentals, etc.

Avis even has their preferred service that you can enroll in. This service allows you to have faster reservations, have your car and rental agreement waiting when you get there, you will get to have a newer car for your rental, and they will provide you with directions weather information and help with your luggage.

Hertz has a points and miles program for frequent users that gives you a variety of upgrades and specials the more miles and points you accumulate. You can get free tanks of gas and upgrades to better cars. Ti doesn't hurt to ask how to qualify for these programs, as the requirements are not usually very stringent. Rental companies you're your repeat business and will offer every incentive they can to get you to come back to them for your next rental.

All of the major rental companies offer discounts for things like AAA, senior discounts and other discounts. Remember to ask when booking a rental. They won't tell you about it, but if you ask, and you qualify, they have to give it to you.

If you are planning on renting for more than a week, check local rates. Local companies can often offer better rates for longer usage. Local companies sometimes have good deals, as well. It is just a matter of doing your homework.

Finally, be aware of the hidden charges that rental companies like to throw in. The price for each day's rental increases dramatically with each of them. Before you agree to their insurance, check your own to see if it covers the use of a rental car. Most of them do. Also, make sure you fill up the tank before you return it. It can cost big bucks not to. Most of the time, options that they try to get you to buy are not anything you actually need.